Ventouse is a vacuum device used to assist the delivery of a baby when labour has not progressed adequately. It is an alternative to a forceps delivery. It is not usually used when the baby is in the breech position or for premature births.

Technique

The woman is placed in the lithotomy position and assists throughout the process by pushing. A suction cup is placed onto the head of the baby and the suction draws the skin from the scalp into the cup. Most ventouse devices have handles, allowing the position of the baby to be manipulated, and when the head is born the device can be detached, allowing the woman to complete the delivery of her child.

Some ventouse births have been conducted before the cervix was fully dilated though some medical practitioners disagree that this should be done.

If the ventouse attempt fails it may be necessary to deliver the infant by caesarean section.

Possible indicating factors

• Fetal or maternal distress (though depending on the severity this may require an emergency caesarean)
• Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure)

Comparisons to other forms of assisted delivery

Positive aspects

• An episiotomy is not usually required and there is little internal bruising
• The mother still takes an active role in the birth
• The force applied to the baby can be less than that of a forceps delivery leaving less marking on the head and face

Negative aspects

• The baby is left with a temporary lump on its head, known as a chignon
• The baby may become distressed due to strong suction to its head